As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches, the spirit of unity and justice that Dr. King championed continues to resonate nationwide. This annual celebration is an important reminder of the ongoing desire for equality and building a harmonious society. To honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., places around Indianapolis are hosting various events that pay homage to his extraordinary contributions and tell the story of his historic life. We have put together a list of local events on and around MLK Day, inviting you to participate in activities that celebrate diversity, promote justice and contribute to the ongoing pursuit of Dr. King’s vision for a more equitable and united society.
Office Of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD)
On Friday, Jan. 12, the City of Indianapolis hosts its Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Observance, honoring Dr. King’s legacy. The celebration includes speeches from Mayor Joe Hogsett, Deputy Mayor Judith Thomas and Director David Fredricks.
The event is from 1-2 p.m. on the second floor of the City-County Council Building in the Beurt. R. Servaas Public Assembly Room. The event is open to all.
The keynote speaker is Pastor John E. Girton Jr., an experienced entrepreneur, community pastor and current executive vice president and chief of staff at Martin University.
The event features music, a moment of silence for Dr. King and the OMWBD MLK Jr. Community Impact Award, which celebrates outstanding contributions to the community. Emil Ekiyor, former NFL player and CEO of InnoPower, will receive the award at this year’s celebration. Join this one-hour ceremony for a meaningful tribute to Dr. King’s enduring impact.
Children’s Musem celebrations
On Monday, Jan. 15, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis hosts a day of events celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King with special programs and musical performances.
The event is from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. and takes place throughout the museum and in the Sunburst Atrium. Tickets are free to Children’s Museum members. For all others, tickets can be purchased at childrensmuseum.org.
Events include percussion music from the Griot Drum Ensemble at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and a reflection and discussion on the words of Dr. King given by resident storyteller Portia Jackson
Indiana Historical Society
In honor of Dr. King’s impactful service, the Indiana Historical Society (IHS) is hosting a daylong celebration Monday, Jan. 15.
The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center is offering free admission and special programs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 450 W. Ohio St. While special programming concludes at 4 p.m., IHS exhibits remain open until 5 p.m.
Embrace the day at IHS Jan. 15, where the focus on community service and Dr. King’s legacy is celebrated through uplifting stories and music. Contribute to a “Be the Change” mural and take a moment to reflect on both small and significant actions that can positively impact the world around you.
The schedule for the day is as follows:
- 10 a.m.-4 p.m., activities and donations
- 10:30–11:30 a.m., storytime
- 2–4 p.m., Concert with Keisha Ballinger and the University United Methodist Church Praise Team
Contact Racial Justice Reporter, Garrett Simms, at 317-762-7847
